Industry charity NewstrAid is shining a spotlight on the powerful link between reading and wellbeing as part of its annual Mindful May initiative.
Each year, Mindful May encourages people across the industry to prioritise their emotional health. In 2026, the campaign takes on added significance as it aligns with the government’s National Year of Reading – Go All In, which aims to reconnect people with the simple joy of reading.
Throughout May, NewstrAid will be using its social media channels to champion how reading can support mindfulness—helping people relax, unwind and step away from the pressures of everyday life.
“Reading is one of the simplest and most effective ways to switch off from the daily stresses we all face. With this being the National Year of Reading, it felt like the perfect opportunity to centre our Mindful May campaign around something so accessible, enjoyable and beneficial,” said CEO of NewstrAid, Neil Jagger.
As part of the campaign, the charity will share insights into the mental health benefits of reading, alongside a selection of book recommendations from the NewstrAid team aimed at encouraging those working across the sector to incorporate reading into their daily routines.
"We wanted to bring a personal touch to the campaign by sharing some of our own favourite reads – and we’d love our followers to get involved too by sending in their recommendations. It’s a great way to build a sense of community while celebrating the joy of a good book,” added Jagger.
In addition to the social media activity, NewstrAid will also be distributing a book token to more than 400 of their beneficiaries to inspire them to make reading part of their everyday lives.